Mass devastation as Vanuatu left in wake

Cyclone Pam made her way across the Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu destroying houses and leaving people to wander the streets as torrential rains and 270 kmp winds ripped through the area.

Entire villages were destroyed as streets became littered with personal belongings, uprooted trees, power lines and roofs. Aid agencies have confirmed the death of eight people so far, however, UN agencies say dozens may have died.

He adds, “The sheer force of the storm combined with communities just not set up to withstand it, could have devastating results for thousands across the region.”

Vanuatu’s president, Baldwin Londsdale, was attending the World Conference on Disaster Risk and Reduction in Japan, when the storm hit. He is appealing for international support: “I am speaking with you today with a heart that is so heavy.

“I stand to appeal on behalf of the government and people of Vanuatu to the global community to give a lending hand.”

Australian Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, said the country was preparing to send a crisis response team to Vanuatu if needed.